Pāṭṭu and its Significance in the Ritual Practices of Kerala

Abstract

Rituals in Kerala (India) are unique, as they often blend religious practices with artistic elements.
Orthodox rituals, performed according to Sanskrit manuals, have little artistic influence and
minimal use of the local language, Malayalam within the ritual performances. In contrast, nonorthodox
rituals, mainly conducted by non-Brahmins, are rich in artistic expression and deeply
influenced by Malayalam. Among these influences, pāṭṭu—songs composed in Malayalam—plays a
significant role.
Although pāṭṭu is often translated as ‘song,’ it also represents a broad tradition of ritual songs that
go beyond mere praise. In many cases, pāṭṭu serves as a ritual guide, as seen in Tiruniḻalmālā, one
of the earliest pāṭṭu texts of Kerala. The verses in this text not only describe ritual imagery but
also provide details on ritual procedures, offerings, and invocations. Many such pāṭṭu texts are
closely linked to recurring ritual practices. As Mucciarelli (2022) suggests, pāṭṭu can be described
as “ritual songs,” and certain types can even be considered a form of “ritual language.”
In some cases, such as tōṟṟampāṭṭu (songs used in Teyyam performances) and Sarpappāṭṭu (songs
sung during snake worship), pāṭṭu is not only a form of devotion but also a means of invoking the
deity. Through these songs, deities are believed to manifest by possessing the performer,
enabling direct communication with devotees. This highlights the deep ritual significance of
pāṭṭu and the role of its singers as ritual performers.
Even in Sanskrit-based rituals, where pāṭṭu is not a central element, it is often used in the form of
stuti (hymns of praise), ensuring its presence across different ritual traditions in Kerala. This
paper will explore the various pāṭṭu genres used in rituals and examine their role in
contemporary ritual practices in Kerala.